Cost-effective and robust continuous biotech bio-based processes

The main goal is to advance continuous biotech processes for producing bio-based chemicals, materials, and ingredients in a more sustainable way. The opportunity focuses on improving the scale-up and sustainability of these processes, making them more productive and selective compared to traditional methods. It also aims to ensure that the final products meet purity standards required for their use. Key focus areas include overcoming technical challenges in moving to continuous production, integrating efficient downstream processing, applying resource and energy efficiency, using advanced monitoring (including digital and AI tools), and supporting safe and sustainable design. The scope mainly covers EU member states and associated countries, but some other countries may also take part if allowed under Horizon Europe rules.

• Projects must follow proposal page limits and layout requirements.
• Applicants must come from eligible countries as defined by Horizon Europe rules.
• Proposals must address challenges in switching to continuous biotech processes.
• Projects should demonstrate sustainable production using continuous processes.
• Integration of efficient downstream processing systems is required.
• Emphasis on resource and energy efficiency, circularity, and advanced monitoring/control systems is necessary.
• Projects must align with safe-and-sustainable-by-design principles and build on previous research and innovation projects.

Examples:

• A project that develops a continuous fermentation process for producing bio-based plastics, with integrated online monitoring for quality control.
• A demonstration of a continuous bioprocess for creating bio-based chemicals, focusing on reducing energy use and waste through improved downstream processing.
• A pilot project that transitions an ingredient production line from batch to continuous operation, applying AI-driven control systems and ensuring product purity.

• Personnel costs
• Subcontracting
• Travel and subsistence
• Equipment (depreciation or rental)
• Consumables and materials
• Dissemination and communication
• Access to research infrastructure
• IPR and certification
• Audit costs
• Indirect costs (25% flat rate)
• Internally invoiced services

• Budget for this Call: 172,137,258€
• Number of Grants attributed: 2
• Budget for each grant: 7,000,000€

• Applicants must meet the eligibility requirements outlined by Horizon Europe.
• Applicants must follow specific conditions for this call as described in the CBE JU Annual Work Programme 2025.
• Applicants must be based in eligible countries (EU member states, associated countries, or certain other countries as permitted).
• Applicants must submit proposals according to the required format and guidelines.
• Proposals should address all technical and sustainability requirements listed in the opportunity.
• Applicants may need to be part of a consortium or partnership, as is common in Horizon Europe projects.
• Applicants should consult the official Programme Guide and annexes for any additional requirements.